Summary of Learning Styles

The three most common learning style types are: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic (hands-on or tactile). Most people have a preferred learning style which is the way they learn best. Some may have a combination of two (e.g. visual/kinesthetic). Some may not have a dominant way to learn but utilize whatever learning style fits a particular learning environment. Regardless of your particular style or styles, it is important to be able to recognize the characteristics of all three.

Visual (Seeing)

• Learn best by seeing information.
• Can easily recall printed information or information presented in pictures, charts or diagrams.
• Have strong visual skills and often look up to “see” information. Used to be called a photographic memory.
• When reading, can make movies in their minds to picture the words or scenes.
• May pay close attention to body language to help understand the spoken word.
• Have a strong sense of aesthetics (beauty) and the things around them (color/shapes).
• When doodling may draw pictures or faces, not just random squiggles.
• Usually more comfortable in classes that emphasize reading and visual presentations.
• Always looking up to see what’s going on. Movement distracts them.

Auditory (Hearing)

• Learn best by hearing information.
• Can remember information or details from conversations or lectures.
• Will remember what is said rather than who said it or where.
• Have strong language skills, verbal and written.
• Have fine tuned “ears” and noise may distract them.
• Hear tones, rhythm and notes clearly and may be musical.
• Have little problem listening to directions or following lectures.

Kinesthetic (Touching, hands-on)

• Learn best by doing.
• Like to talk things out with others and interact with class.
• Learn best by using their hands and manipulating objects.
• Usually like to work with their hands.
• Do well in activities that involve movement such as athletics or dancing.
• Are often the “wiggle worms” in the group; always tapping or jiggling.
• When doodling, just draw random things; it’s the movement they need.
• Prefer classes they can move around in and participate.
• Have to keep moving or fidgeting to stay focused.

Do the statements corresponding to the results of your learning styles inventory describe you?